As the Fourth of July approaches, there’s no better time to celebrate American heritage with one of the nation’s most iconic spirits: whiskey.

 

From the robust, smoky flavours of Tennessee whiskey to the rich, caramel notes of Kentucky bourbon, these spirits have become as much a part of American culture as the stars and stripes. Bourbon, often hailed as “America’s Native Spirit,” has a deep-rooted history dating back to the late 18th century, symbolizing the pioneering spirit of the early settlers. Rye whiskey, with its bold and spicy profile, reflects the rugged determination that shaped the nation.

 

Whether neat, on the rocks, or in a classic cocktail like an Old Fashioned or a Manhattan, American whiskey offers a myriad of ways to enhance your celebration.

 

So whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, or simply raising a toast to our friends across the pond, we’ve put together a list of fantastic bourbons that are perfect for sipping and savouring on Independence Day.

 

 

1. Bombergers Declaration Bourbon 2023 Release


Created by Michter's Distillery to commemorate Abraham Bomberger and his famous Bomberger distillery, the Bomberger's Declaration is an annual limited release small batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon. Hand-picked casks of Kentucky Straight Bourbon were blended with stock of Kentucky Straight Bourbon that had been aged in Chinquapin Oak casks. Think flavours of dark brown sugar, toasted oak and earthy, smoky spices. This is the 2023 release.


ABV: 54% | €160.00

 

 

2. Bowsaw Straight Rye


A small batch rye whiskey that's bound to please newcomers and veterans of the style. A great value Kentucky rye with splendid notes of orange peel, baking spice, toffee, and a touch of caraway.


ABV: 43% | €50.00


 

3. Shenks Homestead Sour Mash 2023
 

Produced by Michter's Distillery to honour John Shenk who had a distillery in Pennsylvania in 1753. This distillery was later bought by the Bomberger family and is now owned by Michter's. This whiskey has depth of flavour with notes of caramel, honey and oak spice. This is the 2023 limited release.


ABV: 45.6% | €149.00

 

 

4. Woodford Reserve
 

A great tasting Bourbon that uses an unusually high proportion of rye grain in the mash bill (18%). What also marks out Woodford Reserve is the use of triple distillation and the inclusion of pot still whiskey. All this makes for a flavoursome and smooth whiskey that can be mixed in high-end cocktails or drunk straight with a little ice.


ABV: 43.2% | €50.00

 

 

5. 1792 Small Batch Bourbon

 

This is a superb Bourbon that has received a lot of critical acclaim yet remains relatively unknown. Relatively full-flavoured for what is approximately an 8 year old Bourbon. this has a high Rye grain content and a satisfyingly spicy flavour.

ABV: 46.85% | €60.00

 

 

6. Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon
 

A superb small batch Bourbon from Kentucky. This is bottled at 94 proof (47%). The original Elijah Craig was credited as being the first distiller to use heavily charred casks and this Bourbon continues on in the same tradition.


ABV: 47% | €58.50
 

 

 

7. Bulleit 10 Year Old Bourbon
 

Released in the US in 2013, the Bulleit 10 Year Old has finally made its way over to Celtic Whiskey Shop. The Bulleit 10 Year Old is Tom Bulleit's selected reserve. Aged in charred American white oak, this Bourbon has rich oaky aromas followed by notes of vanilla, spice, oak and dried fruit.


ABV: 45.6% | €85.00

 

 

8. Heaven’s Door Straight Rye
 

Heaven's Door is an award-winning collection of handcrafted American whiskeys co-created with iconic musician and artist, Bob Dylan. The Straight Rye expression breaks with tradition by finishing in toasted "Cigar Barrels", air-dried in the low-lying mountain region of Vosges, France. This proprietary finishing results in a smoother, approachable rye with notes of orange peel, coriander and spice.


ABV: 43% | €82.00

 

 

We hope you enjoyed our blog post. Be sure to browse our full range of whiskeys or why not pop into our store and have a look for yourself? Alternatively, you can also give us a call at 01 675 9744 or contact us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or email and one of our in-store experts can help you select the perfect whiskey or drink of your choice.